Overview
- Julian Sayin says he and the program carry a “chip on our shoulder” after falling short last season and is prioritizing team goals over individual awards.
- Sayin has spent the offseason with Ohio State performance coach Mickey Marotti to get stronger, faster, and more dangerous when escaping the pocket so he can avoid the late‑game pressure that hurt the team.
- Coaching changes include Brian Hartline leaving for USF and former NFL head coach Arthur Smith arriving as offensive coordinator, a move Ohio State and Sayin describe as likely to reshape play‑calling and schematics.
- Sayin produced elite 2025 numbers — about 3,610 passing yards, a 77% completion rate, 32 touchdowns and a fourth‑place Heisman finish — but was heavily pressured late in the year, including a 72‑yard interception return by Keionte Scott that shifted the playoff game.
- Ohio State returns eight offensive starters, including wideouts Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss, giving the offense continuity that raises expectations and ultimately increases pressure to fix protection and quarterback mobility before the season.